About 800 coats distributed at Bundle Up Butler

October 22, 2022 Last Updated: October 21, 2022 10:01 PM Local News

Devin Cunningham, of Bundle Up Butler, right, helps put a bag of coats into Shawn Nelson’s car Friday, Oct. 21, 2022, at Butler in Memorial Park. Shane Potter/Butler Eagle

Hundreds of people journeyed to Memorial Park Friday, Oct. 21, 2022, to receive winter clothing items from the Center for Community Resources.

While the sunny weather and temperatures in the mid-50s meant recipients probably wouldn’t need to wear their new gear after the giveaway Friday, the organizers of Bundle Up Butler were happy to reach so many people in need.

“It was pretty busy, but we have a good system where they just go around the loop,” said Devin Cunningham, project coordinator for the center. “We’re giving out close to 800 coats today.”

The CCR hosts Bundle Up Butler each year to get cold-weather garments and accessories out to people who register for the event. Those who preregistered to get coats also received a $10 gift card for ALDI at the end of the distribution line, as well as information from numerous other aid organizations based in Butler.

The CCR collects new coats and monetary donations to buy coats throughout the year to prepare for the annual giveaway. Cunningham said the organization requests brand new coats in order to best serve those in need.

Shawn Nelson, left, receives a bag of coats from Devin Cunningham at this year’s Bundle Up Butler event Friday, Oct. 21, 2022, a Memorial Park. Shane Potter/Butler Eagle

“We’re seeing an increase in kids who need adult sizes,” Cunningham said. “We want to cater to that need and make sure they get brand new coats.”

The giveaway took place between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the park, and the drive-through line stayed busy throughout. The event also had a walk-up component, and both options were popular.

“We had about 40 more registrations this year,” Cunningham said. “We have walk-ups from 1 to 2 p.m. and those doubled this year, and we had about 25 more register for drive-ups.”

Christy Bryan, with Catholic Charities USA, picked up seven bags of coats and winter clothing at the drive. She said the program was helpful in supporting a program run by the charities, especially with the region being on the cusp of winter.

“I’m delivering to clients in the Home Again program,” Bryan said. “We help get clients into stable housing, so these coats are going to them so they can save money.”